Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Roast the sweet potatoes: Place the cubed sweet potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Massage the kale: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, place the torn kale into a large bowl. Drizzle the kale with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Use your hands to massage the kale for about 2-3 minutes, until the kale softens and becomes vibrant in color.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), and salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Combine the ingredients: Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, let them cool for a few minutes. Then, add the roasted sweet potatoes to the bowl with the massaged kale.
- Toss the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the kale and sweet potatoes, then toss everything together gently until well coated.
- Top with seeds and dried fruit (optional): Sprinkle the salad with toasted pumpkin seeds (or sunflower seeds) and dried cranberries or raisins for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a light meal or side dish. This salad can be enjoyed warm or chilled.